Yes, Idaho permits the salvage of roadkill under strict conditions outlined in state wildlife statutes and Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) guidelines. The Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) authorizes possession of certain species if reported within 24 hours and retrieved promptly, aligning with conservation and public safety objectives.
Key Regulations for Keeping Roadkill in Idaho
- Species Eligibility: Only legally classified game species (e.g., deer, elk, pronghorn) may be salvaged, excluding protected or non-game wildlife. IDFG’s 2026 updated list excludes cougars and black bears without special permits.
- Reporting Requirements: Salvagers must notify IDFG or local law enforcement within 24 hours via the Roadkill Reporting System (online or hotline) to avoid misdemeanor charges under Idaho Code § 36-1101.
- Retrieval & Possession: Carcasses must be lawfully retrieved (no trespassing) and processed within 72 hours; storage requires refrigeration or immediate processing to prevent health violations under Idaho Department of Health and Welfare protocols.
Failure to comply risks penalties up to $1,000 or confiscation under IDFG enforcement directives. Local ITD districts may impose additional retrieval time limits during winter road maintenance seasons. Always verify species-specific rules before salvage operations.